Speaking to the club's official website, Mitchell said that it is an opportunity to put the local area on the map.

"Real Madrid are at the pinnacle of global sport and to host them will be an honour for the squad, management and supporters of AFC Bournemouth," he explained.

(Image: PA)

"We see the fixture as a well-earned gift to our fans for their unwavering dedication to AFC Bournemouth, and also an opportunity for us to put the town of Bournemouth on the map.

"We are honoured to have been handpicked by Real Madrid to be their hosts in this landmark moment for the Football League, and we will do everything to ensure the game goes down in history."

And Emilio Butragueno, Real Madrid's director of institutional relations, added: "The friendly match will be a fantastic opportunity for both teams and we are looking forward to travelling to Bournemouth and to the Goldsands Stadium.

"We look forward the challenge presented to us by our English opponents."